It cannot be underestimated the influence that children’s ability to read has on their experience of school. Children’s success in reading positively influences all other aspects of the curriculum as it is the basis of many other curricular areas.

It is natural for parents to be enthusiastic about children’s reading as they make the first tentative steps to master the printed word. In general, parents of children in junior classes tend to read more to their children and listen more to their children’s reading. However, the need to listen to children reading does not diminish as the child advances through the school. Just because a child “can” read does not mean that every opportunity should not be taken to allow the child to read aloud. Reading to an adult at home allows the child to consolidate what the child is practising at school. It also allows the child to consolidate the key reading skills of fluency, clarity and reading with meaning. Reading a little , but often, is much more beneficial than reading a lot, but rarely. Children should develop the habit of reading aloud to an adult at home each night for 8-10 minutes whether reading homework is given or not.

Approaches to Reading at Home 

· Read little and often—don’t overdo it

· Find a quiet place—away from distractions like TV, computer

· Make sure the table/chair are comfortable

· Be enthusiastic and interested

· Be patient

· Make the reading session fun and enjoyable

· Talk together about the book

· Talk before you start, while reading and at the end

· Ask some pertinent questions to aid comprehension skills

· Avoid criticising, telling off or threats

· Praise success—say “Well Understood!” or “Great expression!” regularly (and sound as if you mean it!)

· Stop and encourage prediction skills by asking “What do you think will happen next?”

· Always end the reading session on a positive note

· Encourage your child to read ahead quietly in their spare time

Parents as Role Models

Children, need as much positive interest and encouragement as possible from parents in regard to reading. The teacher develops the necessary reading skills at school. However, the love of reading is developed through a partnership between home and school. The reading climate in the home is crucial. Parents are role models. If children see parents enjoying books, they will want to explore books themselves. It is widely acknowledged that the single most important factor in determining the child’s success in reading is parental attitude. If parents provide suitable reading material, if they encourage children to choose books from the library, if they listen with enthusiasm to their child’s reading, if they buy books as presents, they are supplementing the work of the teacher in the area of reading development in a real and meaningful way. A happy and secure reading environment in the home will give the child a positive attitude towards reading.